Biology
Exam Board: OCR

Are you looking for a subject that will teach you how living organisms work?Biology

AS and A2 level Biology will give you an understanding of the processes that take place in living organisms e.g. Osmosis, Mitosis, DNA, Heart structure, Diseases, Reproduction and Nerves. The syllabus aims to extend the student’s knowledge of Biology and explain the ideas that support all the new topics covered and highlight the latest advances in Biological research.

During the year the aim is to build on concepts developed in the National Curriculum and extend the student’s knowledge and understanding whilst developing communication, experimental and IT skills. Practical work is a major element of the course and students will need to enhance their experimental skills of planning investigations, carrying them out, collecting evidence, interpreting and evaluating evidence.

Biology provides an excellent A-level combination with a broad spectrum of subjects. Whatever your final degree course or job choice, Biology is a valuable option for the future. An A or B in Double Award Science, or an A or B grade in GCSE Biology is the minimum entry requirement to the course. All other GCSE results would be considered on merit.

In Year 12 students take three units for assessment, including an experimental skills component. In Year 13 students take a further three units for assessment also including an experimental skills component.

The following modules are completed in Year 12:

In Year 12 all students complete a written exam for the Cells, Exchange and Transport module in January with unit F212 being examined in June. The Practical Skills in Biology module will be completed and moderated during the year. Students who successfully complete the AS exams can progress to the full A2 course in Year 13.

The following modules are completed in Year 13:

The written modules for A2, F214 and F215, will be examined in June. The practical skills component as with the AS will be completed and moderated during the year.